Reasons for Electric Vehicle Brake Failure?
2 Answers
Compared to fuel-powered vehicles, electric vehicles are more prone to brake failure due to inherent design factors. The specific reasons are as follows: 1. Mode: To extend range, electric vehicles feature a "kinetic energy recovery" function, commonly known as "single-pedal mode": releasing the accelerator causes the vehicle to generate electricity and decelerate, effectively acting as a brake. 2. Issue: The problem lies in the accelerator serving both acceleration and mild braking functions, which can easily confuse the driver's brain. Particularly when lifting the accelerator reveals insufficient braking effect, requiring further braking, mental confusion may lead to instinctively pressing the accelerator instead. 3. Chain reaction: This marks the beginning of a chain of erroneous reactions. Electric vehicles typically accelerate from 0-100km/h in under 6 seconds, and even at a speed of at least 20km/h when approaching an obstacle, a collision could occur within 2-3 seconds. Realizing the mistake of pressing the accelerator instead of the brake is often too late, and braking becomes ineffective, resulting in accidents. Describing this process, many might claim "Tesla accelerator malfunction or brake failure."
Last time my friend's electric car experienced brake failure, which was mainly due to brake fluid line leakage and severely worn brake pads. However, EVs also have a unique risk: failure of the brake energy recovery system. When that recovery system malfunctions, it can suddenly reduce braking force. Additionally, a power loss in the brake electronic booster pump can cause the pedal to become stiff and unresponsive. Experienced drivers will remind you that if you hear abnormal brake noises or feel the pedal becoming unsteady, pull over immediately—never continue driving. If you wait until the brake pedal is completely depressed before getting it fixed, it basically means the brakes won’t work at all.
